JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Members of the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation announced a donation of $300,000 to 16 public safety groups in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.

Among the recipients were Jacksonville Sheriff John Rutherford and Fire Chief Martin Senterfitt. Robin and Chris Sorensen, co-founders of the restaurant chain, were also awarded the the Governor's Business Ambassador Award by Gov. Rick Scott, who was in attendance at the event.

"Firehouse Subs is a perfect example of the impact that a business can have on a community, families and the economy," Scott said. "The success in growing Firehouse Subs from one small restaurant here in Jacksonville, to a nationally thriving business that gives back to the communities which is serves is remarkable."

The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation raises funds in-store and through external donations, according to a release from the Governor's office. The foundation has given $5.2 million in grant money to organizations in 33 states and Puerto Rico since 2005.